Moto Guzzi(R) Norge 1200 Cruises Into U.S. Market
Grand Touring and Italian Style Fuse In Model Made for Comfort and Safety

NEW YORK, Dec. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- Moto Guzzi USA, manufacturer of the
legendary "Italian Eagle" Moto Guzzi(R) motorcycle and a pioneer of
two-wheel vehicles, today announced the debut of its highly-anticipated
Norge 1200 GT in the U.S. market. Built to deliver superior comfort and
safety, the Norge 1200's unique styling, performance and technology offer a
smooth and stable ride, mile after mile.
Thoroughly tested in Moto Guzzi's Italian factory wind tunnel, the
Norge 1200 fairing was designed for remarkable rider protection. Its
distinctive form creates stability by enhancing down force at high speeds.
The addition of lowers and splash guards on the U.S. models will further
improve rider protection in inclement weather. The windshield has
electronic height adjustment, so the rider can manipulate the amount of air
necessary to maximize comfort.
The Norge features an anti-lock braking system that increases safety
and improves stopping in difficult conditions. Precise steering provides
stability at every turn, while poly elliptical headlights illuminate
surroundings for safer driving at any hour, further demonstrating the
Norge's impressive versatility on the road.
At the heart of the Norge 1200 is a new and improved version of the
trademark 90 degree V-Twin engine. The new engine has more power, more
torque, and less vibration compared to previous versions. The new engine is
also paired with the patented C.A.R.C. single sided shaft drive system for
improved handling and smoothness.
Norge riders will appreciate advanced technological features designed
to enhance their rides. An on-board trip computer can be operated from the
hand grips to provide information such as trip time, average fuel mileage
and average speed. The electric heated grips improve comfort on colder
morning rides, while large saddle bags allow passengers to carry their
necessities for any long trips.
2006 marks the 85th anniversary of the Moto Guzzi brand, making it one
of the longest continuously produced motorcycle brands in the world. Just
as they did 85 years ago, the company's finely crafted machines reflect the
sensibilities and timeless beauty of its birthplace at Lake Como.
The Norge 1200 was released in Europe earlier this year and received a
great reception from riders and the press all over Europe. In the United
States the bike will be displayed at various International Motorcycle Shows
and to date has received an overwhelming response from the public. The
Norge 1200 GT will begin to appear in authorized U.S. Moto Guzzi dealers in
December of 2006 at an MSRP of $14,990. For more information, please visit
http://www.motoguzzi-us.com/
About Moto Guzzi and Piaggio Group Americas
For more than 85 years, Moto Guzzi has maintained a reputation as one
of world's most prominent manufacturers of motorcycles. The company was
founded in 1921 on the shores of Lake Como in the village of Mandello del
Lario, Italy, where the motorcycles are still manufactured today. Moto
Guzzi has notched up no fewer than 3,300 racing wins including 14 world GP
titles, 22 world records and 11 Isle of Man Tourist Trophy wins in the
course of its long history.
In December 2004 Moto Guzzi became part of the Piaggio Group, Europe's
leading manufacturer of two wheelers and one of the world's leading names
in motorcycle and scooter production.
The Piaggio Group's significant push to re-launch Moto Guzzi, also
through an impressive series of new model launches, has led to a huge
increase in worldwide sales for this venerable and distinguished brand. In
September, over 15,000 Guzzi fans from over 20 countries traveled to
Mandello to take part in the GMG or World Guzzi Days.
With over 6,000 employees in 50 countries, the Piaggio Group has a
consolidated leadership in the European 2-wheeler market. Its production
includes scooters, motorcycles and mopeds in the 50cc to over 1000 cc
displacement range, marketed under the Piaggio, Vespa, Gilera, Derbi,
Aprilia, Scarabeo and Moto Guzzi brands.